The streets of Oakland were rocked in July 2024 when rising rapper Tan the God was gunned down in broad daylight at a beauty supply shop’s grand opening.
Tan the God, who was gaining recognition in the rap game, had just wrapped up a performance and a fan meet-and-greet. She was known for supporting local businesses, and this event was no exception. The excitement quickly turned into chaos when an argument inside the shop escalated into fatal violence.
Reports say a man in a hoodie confronted Tan the God and, following a heated exchange, opened fire. The crowd scattered as shots rang out, and Tan was hit. Despite paramedics’ swift response, she was pronounced dead hours later at the hospital.
Eyewitnesses gave conflicting accounts. Some said the attacker deliberately targeted Tan the God, while others mentioned a prior argument. Another person was injured but survived. The community was left in shock, struggling to understand why this happened.
Speculation grew when another rapper, BNC Fero, was arrested for her murder. His criminal history, including a previous shooting in June 2023, painted a picture of a violent individual. However, the real motive behind the attack remains unclear.
Rumors linked Tan the God’s death to a project she released in 2023, where she allegedly hinted at killing her ex-boyfriend. On a podcast, she discussed threats from an abusive ex but stopped short of self-incrimination, stating the truth would come out eventually. Fans and bloggers debated whether her claims were genuine or a publicity stunt.
Further speculation tied her to a past murder story, but that was debunked by family and bloggers. Her real name was Aliana Green, and conflicting narratives about her life and death made the situation even murkier. According to her family, the murder claims were fabricated for attention, an assertion supported by a comedian she contacted for promotion.
Tan’s brother revealed that she spent significant money on promotions, aiming to boost her career. The controversy around her ex’s alleged murder, whether true or false, certainly garnered her attention. However, it’s believed she fell victim to street politics rather than a personal vendetta.
Her untimely demise hit the community hard. Tan was known for her determination to succeed without compromising her values. She invested in her music, owned studios, and continuously gave back to Oakland. Friends and relatives remember her as full of life and ambition.
Tan’s connection with established rapper Mr. Fab added another layer to the story. Mr. Fab, a Bay Area legend, mourned her loss and regretted not attending the event where she was killed. Some tried to link him to the incident, but no evidence has surfaced to support these claims.
In the end, the real reasons behind this tragedy might never be fully known. What remains is the legacy of a young artist who aimed to rise in the music world but whose life was cut short by senseless violence. Her story is a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by many in the rap community.
Tan the God’s story is a devastating example of how quickly success and dreams can be shattered by violence. Her legacy will live on through her music and the memories of those who knew her.
